Free agent Haywood Highsmith has officially reached an agreement on a multiyear deal with the Phoenix Suns, as confirmed by his agent, Jerry Dianis, to ESPN on Saturday. Highsmith, a 29-year-old forward, had been a highly sought-after player, reportedly considering offers from multiple playoff-contending teams before ultimately committing to the Suns.

Highsmith's journey to free agency involved a trade last offseason where he was acquired by the Brooklyn Nets from the Miami Heat. However, he was subsequently waived by the Nets at this month's trade deadline, making him available on the open market.

Known throughout the league as a gritty, two-way player when healthy, Highsmith has not yet made an appearance in a game this season. This absence is due to his ongoing rehabilitation from a knee surgery he underwent during the summer. His addition is expected to bolster a Phoenix Suns team that currently holds a 32-23 record at the All-Star break, placing them 1.5 games behind the 5-seed in their conference. His return to full health will be crucial for the Suns as they push for improved playoff positioning.